A new look at the Horpa-Tangut preinitial system

This article employs the most recent fieldwork data on Horpa lects and undertakes a comprehensive historical-comparative analysis to examine the reflection of Proto-Horpa-Tangut preinitials in Tangut. It further clarifies the origins of tense vowels, long vowels, and the medial ‑ w ‑ in Tangut. This comparative study enhances our understanding of the diverse correspondences between Tangut and its closest relative, Horpa, and contributes to the broader investigation of the historical development of Rgyalrongic languages.